Rostnikov's Vacation Quotes

“Anton placed two glasses on the table, each containing a spoon. From the steaming gray pot that he carried in a towel he poured hot water, letting it run down the spoon to keep the water from cracking the glass.”
― Stuart M. Kaminsky, Rostnikov's Vacation

“It’s a scone,” said Anton proudly. “British.” Rostnikov bit it and took a sip of tea. “Tasty,” he said, though the roll tasted a bit as Rostnikov imagined crushed seashells might taste.”
― Stuart M. Kaminsky, Rostnikov's Vacation

“Sasha,” Rostnikov had interrupted, “do you know Alice in Wonderland!” “Alice in … ? No,” Tkach answered. “You should read it,” said Rostnikov. “It is about the Soviet Union. At one point a crazed hat maker says what I am about to say to you: Begin at the beginning and when you come to the end, stop.”
― Stuart M. Kaminsky, Rostnikov's Vacation

“It is my duty,” said Karpo. “If it costs me my life, then I will die in the course of my duty. If I value my life more highly than I value the meaning by which I live, then my life has no meaning.”
― Stuart M. Kaminsky, Rostnikov's Vacation